DOGS

DOG FRIENDLY THIS AUGUST, SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER 2025

For a limited time only, from August 1 - 31 October, we’re welcoming well-behaved dogs to The Wensley.

Normally a pet-free retreat, we know how special it can be to share getaways with your four-legged companion, especially when there are wide open spaces to roam and a fire to curl up beside. So for these few wintery weeks, dogs are officially invited.

To help ensure a relaxing and respectful stay for everyone, human and hound, we ask that guests bringing a dog agree to the following:

One dog per booking (unless otherwise approved in writing)
Please bring your own dog bedding and towels
Dogs must not be left alone on the property at any time
Strictly no dogs on furniture or beds
Please clean up after your dog – inside and out. A bin and bags are provided
Dogs must be kept on-lead while walking the property, as there may be wildlife or livestock nearby
Dogs are to sleep on their own beds. There is a laundry in the shed for those dogs that have the tendency to sneak onto couches.
An additional cleaning fee of $100 applies

When booking please select the 'Dog Friendly' option. If you wish to take advantage of the midweek romantic stay this October - and bring your dog. Please email fran@thewensley.com

DOG-FRIENDLY ADVENTURES NEAR THE WENSLEY

The Wensley backs directly onto Otway Forest Park, which—lucky for us—is one of the few national parks in Victoria that allows dogs on-lead. That means you and your pup can walk straight from the property into ancient bushland. We’ve handpicked a few of our favourite walking tracks through the forest just for Wensley guests and these are in our property guide which you receive when booking.

COASTAL OUTINGS

Our nearest coastal towns are Anglesea and Aireys Inlet, and both have fantastic dog-friendly offerings:

ANGLESEA

O’Donohues Beach (just west of Point Roadknight) is off-leash at all times. You can park nearby and access the beach via the track.
For a post-walk refreshment, Morgans Bar and Grill and Last One Inn welcome dogs in their outdoor areas (on-lead). The margaritas and seasonal produce at Last One Inn are worth writing home about—Broadsheet-worthy, even! Just double-check their opening hours before you go.

AIREYS INLET

Head to the Split Point Lighthouse for a spectacular cliff walk. It’s on-lead, and the views down the coast are nothing short of magic.
Just west of the lighthouse, the beach is off-lead at all times—park nearby and enjoy a seaside stroll.
Alternatively, park at the Fairhaven Surf Life Saving Club and walk west to Moggs Creek—a 1.1km off-leash stretch that’s particularly dreamy at sunset.
For a bite, Aireys Inlet Pub has a relaxed outdoor area where dogs are welcome on-lead. But if you’re after something a little more special, A La Grecque is a standout. Call ahead and ask Stratos if there’s space for you and your four-legged date on the deck.

THE 12 APOSTLES

Unfortunately, dogs aren’t allowed in most Victorian national parks—including the one surrounding the 12 Apostles. However, here’s a cheeky little loophole: the 12 Apostles car park sits just outside the park boundary. So if the weather’s cool and your dog is comfortable, you can leave them in the car while you nip down for a quick look (and a sunset photo). If you’re after a more dog-friendly coastal walk, detour to the Bay of Martyrs Track near Peterborough—a stunning 4km return cliff-top walk (about 2 hours) where dogs are welcome on-leash. See the map and read more about it here.

For a comprehensive breakdown on dog friendly beaches head the dogs on holiday website.